Why We Do What We Do: A statement from the CEO.

After a slew of successful showcases in 2013, MusicConnex returns to The Flyover for its first event of the year, bringing with it another line up of specially selected artists.

Artists Performing on February 15th: 

Giovanca - from Holland
Debra Debs – UK
Tony Momrelle – UK
Ayanna Witter-Johnson - UK

Al Castellana - from Italy

The purpose of MusicConnex is to facilitate and encourage artists to take control of their career and to help empower them to liberate their dreams. We aim to encourage the sharing of ideas, insight and experience to inspire each other by facilitating debate around the issues facing young and established artists alike.  The idea is to create conversation and show by example amongst industry professionals and artists, as well as artist to artist, in order to get people interacting, celebrating successes and looking positively at the opportunities this new world provides.

MusicConnex CEO and Founder, Jon Mansfield says: "MusicConnex Live aims to support independent artists. The focus of our events is on providing wider exposure through Marketing and PR support including interviews, airplay, social media, viral campaigns, radio advertising as well as services such as distribution if required. A new culture is emerging, full of self-motivated, enterprising, creative and innovative music professionals with incredible talent. MusicConnex wants to help facilitate, inspire and empower them to realise their ambitions and dreams”.
 

See you on the 15th!

Promo video
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MusicConnex / iluvlive / Music Week join forces for the ultimate showcase.

MusicConnex, ILUVLIVE and Music Week presents: RADAR

7pm Thursday 28^th November 2013 at Under the Bridge

Confirmed Line-up: Nick Brewer / Izzy Bizu / Aiden / The Boxettes / Lianne Kaye

Organisers MusicConnex, ILUVLIVE and Music Week are proud to present the highly anticipated, RADAR - a showcase spotlighting the best unsigned and just-signed talent to the UK music industry. Acts will be from all musical genres and the event is designed to support artists who have already done an impressive amount of ground work. RADAR hopes to be the industry definitive showcase for artists who the organisers believe will breakthrough in the next 12 months.

RADAR will take place four times a year and the first will be held on Thursday, November 28th at the multi -million pound venue Under The Bridge in Chelsea and hosted by Music Week Editor, Tim Ingham with performances by hotly-tipped acts; Nick Brewer, Izzy Bizu, Aiden, The Boxettes and Lianna Kaye.

Jon Mansfield, CEO of MusicConnex explains the importance of events such as RADAR: “There is so much amazing talent in the UK right now; it is an exciting time in the music industry. Whilst there are many excellent live opportunities for emerging talent, especially those starting out, there is yet to be a definitive music industry backed showcase that seeks to hand pick those we believe are doing something truly outstanding that is beginning to gain traction.
We are honoured to be partnering up with Music Week and ILUVLIVE to create RADAR which will help make RADAR as inclusive as possible. We wanted the best facilities and Under The Bridge was our first choice and are thrilled they share our vision for supporting emerging talent and have their full support. We are also grateful for the support of PRS for Music as sponsor for these showcases.”

Known for supporting pioneering musical activity for almost a hundred years, PRS for Music has supported over 4,500 new music initiatives that promote the value of songwriting and importance of music rights.
Andy Ellis, Education and Outreach Manager, PRS for Music: “Supporting talent at a grassroots level is fundamental to ensuring a sustainable music industry is enjoyed by all. We are delighted to be involved with RADAR which gives those just starting out a fantastic opportunity to showcase their music to THE industry experts that can help them in developing a career. ”

Rachael Bee - MD ILUVLIVE, added: “We are really excited to be collaborating with Music Week and MusicConnex on Radar. Over nearly ten years of running ILUVLIVE, we have often come across acts that we would have liked to support but didn't really fit in with our remit. It's going to be great to offer a broader range of talent support and to have the credibility of Music Week behind the event.”

Are you on the RADAR? For more information about MusicConnex, RADAR and to purchase tickets, visit: www.musicconnex.co.uk
* Watch the promo video:  http://iluvlive.co.uk/videos/2310/RADAR-28th-November-2013-Under-The-Bridge
* For more information about ILUVLIVE visit: http://iluvlive.co.uk/
ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS:

 * Members of the press and photographers are invited to attend. Please email info@purplereignpr.co.uk with your name, publication you represent and a contact number.
* MusicConnex provides a platform to network, develop skills, showcase and inspire. Its aim is to support and encourage artists and creative business minds to best position, manage and monetise their music career.
 * About PRS for Music
PRS for Music represents the rights of 100,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers in the UK.  As a membership organisation it ensures creators are paid whenever their music is played, performed or reproduced; championing the importance of copyright to protect and support the UK music industry. The UK has a proud tradition of creating wonderful music that is enjoyed the world over and PRS for Music has been supporting the creators of that music since 1914.   PRS for Music provides business and community groups with easy access to over 10m songs through its music licences.  In an industry worth £3.8bn PRS for Music is uniquely placed to be a voice for music and music creators. Collecting £630.8m in 2011 PRS for Music is one of the world’s most efficient combined rights organisations. With 150 representation agreements in place globally, PRS for Music’s network represents over 2 million music creators.  
* Music Week has combined with ILUVLIVE and MusicConnex to launch a night showcasing the best unsigned and just-signed talent to the UK music industry. The aim is to make the night the go-to industry showcase, with Music Week not only publicising the event, but also providing extra exposure for artists.

* The Acts
Izzy Bizu is a 19 year old singer-songwriter from South West London. Born to an Ethiopian mother and English father she grew up listening to Ella Fitzgerald, Bettye Swann, Betty Wright and James Brown and draws on these alongside new influences, such as Amy Winehouse and Adele to create a fusion of Soul, Funk,Jazz and Pop that sounds classic and brand spanking new all at once. @IzzyBizu

Nick Brewer is one of the brightest and talented lyricist’s of 2013 who is bringing a breath of fresh urban air to the London rap scene. At only 22 he has learnt to accept his somewhat eclectic inspirations: Incubus, James Blake, George Benson, John Legend, Eminem, Kanye West, Nas, Calvin Harris, Slum Village, SBTRKT and Kendrick Lamar to name a few. The combination of his experiences, observations and inspirations is what gives him a musical edge and lyrical ability to give you an experience that you seldom find in rap songs these days.
 
Aiden, (formerly Aiden Grimshaw)
Aiden has released his incredible debut album ‘Misty Eye’ through RCA records – preceded by the single ‘Curtain Call’. Misty Eye is a breath taking album, the result of two years of writing and recording following Aiden’s appearance on The X Factor in 2010. @aiden

The Boxettes are five young women with more passion and inspiration than seems safe.
 An all-female vocal group featuring the world BeatBox champion Bellatrix and four of London’s finest new voices. Crushing the girl-band stereotype, these extraordinary young women create a sound and energy so empowering that their every audience is left mesmerized and inspired. @theboxettes

Lianne Kaye. 18 year-old Lianne Kaye is a refreshing pop-rock singer hailing from Essex, who has pulled on musical influences from Michelle Branch to The Veronica’s to develop the rockier styling’s that embody her first EP titled “Vacancy”. @Liannekaye

Are you on the RADAR?

Music Week has combined with ILUVLIVE and MusicConnex to launch a night showcasing the best unsigned and just-signed talent to the UK music industry.
Taking place four times a year in London, the first RADAR  will be held on Thursday, November 28 at event partner Under The Bridge in Chelsea.
The aim is to make the night the go-to industry showcase, with Music Week not only publicising the event, but also providing extra exposure for artists.
The first event’s line-up will include hotly-tipped acts Izzy Bizu , Nick Brewer, the Boxettes and more.
A limited number of free RADAR tickets are available to Music Week readers. To apply for the free guest list, click through to this ticketing link and use the promo code MWVIP.

For a range of sponsorship opportunities please contact Darrell.Carter@intentmedia.co.uk

 

 

 

 

#MCXAlumni - Chidi

MusicConnex Alumni has been set up to highlight the achievements of artists who has come through our doors and performed at one of our previous showcases.

One such artist and alumnae is Chidi who performed at our 2012 Summer Showcase at Adam Street Private Members’ Club.
Since then, Chidi has launched her album ‘Exhale' which features the hot track 'Wrong Again' and continues to work with various producers on tracks for collaboration projects, compilation albums and a few duet tracks.

She also informs us that she's been working with The One Show Team up and down the country as a Vocal Coach which she is really enjoying; and if that wasn't enough she's also busy on the festival circuit and recently performed on the Hip Shakers Stage  at the Isle of Wight Festival on 15th June and left the crowd begging for more!

Check out her official website for all the details of her  forthcoming performances.

Chidi tells us there's a new EP on the horizon due for release later this year. (You heard it here first!)

Well done Chidi. Keep up all the great work.
We’re proud to have you as a #MCXAlumni member.

 Article by: MCX Team

 

Interview: MCX Showcase Part 2 ft Shan Smile

Recently we sat down with the young talent that is Shan Smile. With only a matter of weeks to go until the MusicConnex July showcase where Shan will be taking the stage, she was understandably excited.

Shan Smile is a singer/songwriter from South London. Having attended the famous Brit School, Shan is now studying Music at Middlesex University.

CC: Can you tell us about one of your first memories of singing?

SS: When I was at my Secondary School at a talent competition. I sang 'I love your Smile' by Shanice, which is who I was named after. My sister was also in the competition and it was such a great experience and from that is where my love of music started to grow.

CC: What made you decide you would like to take your training to another level and attend a music school?

SS: I suppose it was going to Chestnut Grove Secondary School and from taking part in competitions and pretty much anything to do with music - I was involved with so much musically, even playing the trumpet in the orchestra, from there I felt like I had reached a limit musically at Chestnut Grove so someone suggested I apply to The Brit School and that's how that started.

CC: What influence has your training at The Brit School had on you as an artist?

SS: A big influence! It's encouraged me to do things for yourself. Taught me about how to work with people and working as a team. It's also made me enjoy it so much more.

CC: Who are your biggest influences music wise?

SS: I have so many. I am influenced by a lot of things and people and artists. I can't really put a finger on it because I have such a big play list. There are so many artists on there. I would say at different times, different people influence me. My dad has definitely introduced me to so many artists; Sam Cooke, Michael Jackson and those types of artists.

CC: How do you go about the songwriting process?

SS: I always sit down and just play my guitar and so much can come from that. Or if i see something happening, or someone going through something, or if I am going through something, I will sit down with my guitar, write and let it flow.

 

CC: How did you go about finding your own sound?
 
SS: When I started at the Brit School, I started guitar lessons and it took me about 4 years to learn to play properly and be able to accompany myself. So from that, gigging, writing with people etc, that's where my sound developed. In fact it's still developing.

CC: Describe one of your favourite performances so far?
SS: My launch was on the 22nd of May that was an amazing experience.

CC: How do you get ready for a performance?

SS: I pray and I try to stay happy. I try not to be nervous. I analyse my surroundings to work out how to perform in that space. I rehearse and then just try to enjoy it. You have to enjoy it. That's the most important thing.

CC: If you could collaborate with any other artist dead or alive, who would if be and why?

SS: I would say Michael Jackson or Sam Cooke. Sam Cooke's voice is so touching, I find his voice amazing. The soulfulness of it is just amazing. Michael Jackson? I would have loved to be able to go into the studio and write a song with him.

CC: Musically what’s the best piece of advice you have been given?

SS: No one else can invest in your dream more than you can.

CC: What advice would you give to an aspiring singer/ songwriters?

SS: Practise, practise, practise!

CC: What do you see in your future?

SS: I see more projects being released. Me collaborating with more people. Songwriting and touring I hope.

CC: What was the last track you listened to?

SS: The gospel song 'I Trust You Lord' by Donnie McClurkin or it could've been Chaka Khan!

CC: Describe your perfect day?

SS: In the sun, in the park, with my loved ones, with my guitar, jamming and having a laugh. Oh and food of course!

It was a pleasure to be able to get to know more about this budding talent and we are very excited to see Shan Smile perform at the next showcase! Tickets are available now on the website, we look forward to seeing you there!

Article By: Claire Cripps

#MCXTALENT2013  #EVENTREVIEW by Gaynor Tutani

One of the biggest mistakes that one can ever do is read a review of an event they intend to review. I am sure you can all think of many reasons why it is not advisable, yet I found myself reading Claire Cripps’ account of MusicConnex’s Showcase held on the 1^st of June. Was it a mistake? Absolutely not! I actually pictured myself having a conversation with her about the performances over a few glasses of wine if not bottles, trying to explain the amazing experience I believe we both had from the marvellous musicianship presented on the night. Claire’s ability to review all 7 acts microscopically yet concise is admirable. She successfully painted a vivid picture of the night and as I read it I felt like I was back at the Flyover, being surrounded by similar souls; music lovers, and people driven by passion. Like she said, “the atmosphere was electric” and it left me buzzing for days. I have never been to such a showcase whereby each act is pure perfection. Some might view this as maybe an exaggeration, however, I can assure you that it is far from it, MusicConnex know their stuff when it comes to music and I am not surprised given their history.

As I arrived, Honey Larochelle the headline walked passed me, smiled, and said “hello” casually like she knew me. I coolly greeted her but I will not deny that I was surprised. She had a bubbly buzz far from a diva and this was the prelude for all the artists. They were all pleasant and sociable with captivating stage presence, bold personalities which somewhat had an effect of reflecting who they are through their music and this is what stood out for me. I believe that the effect or rather essence of quality music can reveal one’s own identity so it was such a good feeling having the artists share parts of themselves.

Charlene the first act and host had a feminine poise that calmed me. Her sound was soothing, and her music has a feel good factor which makes you think of love or rather what it can be. The follow up Nate Williams has ‘the boy next door’ look so you can easily underestimate his ability but his vocals awakens you and you just cannot help but smile from the surprise once he starts singing. He is like that unexpected gift whose humbleness makes you admire his talents even more. As for Sherry Davis, apparently she was ill on the night. I am not denying her illness but it did not resonate what so ever! Artists that show up and deliver regardless of any setbacks, coupled with sweet melodies deserve respect and she earned mine. At this point all three acts had me reeling with joy. The music was just absolutely incredible. I have no favourite performance however, Izzy Bizu’s set stuck with me. The night before I randomly saw her on a train but I did not know her then. She had a skateboard next to her, with her ripped jeans revealing scars on her knees. As I sat opposite her I found myself admiring the care free attitude that boasted from her demeanour thus when I noticed that she was the girl from the previous night, I was at awe. Not only because of her incredible vocal ranges but because she had the same alluring element that exudes stardom. She is definitely one to watch out for!

The following three ladies took the night to greater heights. Tasita D’mour takes the stage as her own home. It all appears natural to her that one can think singing is simple. I felt like I was at a Diana Ross and the Supreme concert, her voice is just a power house. At this stage, as I write I am not sure how I will describe Acantha Lang and Honey, and I feel that I may not have the words to express my own excitement. They were just born to perform! Acantha is full of emotion given her blues background. Every song has a story that you wish you could have a day with her just to find out more. She is that type of artist that you may not know her music when you first hear her, but after, you cannot be anything but a fan.

Honey blazed the night, with her red hair, red lips, everything about her was fire! She has a playful persona and she is very open too. She knows how to engage with a crowd and just be herself. She definitely gave me the “Yes Feeling” with every song she performed l related to the words and the meaning behind the songs which I am sure many people did. She loves, she lives and she is just comfortable with who she is that one cannot help but love her.

It has been 2 weeks after the showcase yet I am still able to visualise it, the whole night was a fantastic experience including the vibrating crowd and I have to give credit to the house band. I will definitely not forget it and I am already looking forward to the next showcase; 20^th July I know where I will be!